The average public school is nearly 50 years old, putting students in areas of extreme heat at risk without the proper facilities. Here are five ways to keep extreme climates from impacting student learning.
In the largest U.S. cities, 76% of students attend public school in “extreme heat zones,” according to a new analysis from Climate Central, an independent climate change research organization.
The researchers argue that the combined effects of human-caused climate change and urban heat islands put students at risk, especially in districts that offer summer programming.
Specifically, some of the largest cities deemed extreme urban heat zones include places like:
|
City |
Number (percent) of K-12 students attending public school in extreme urban heat zones |
|---|---|
|
New York, N.Y. |
819,719 (85%) |
|
Houston, Texas |
326,596 (94%) |
|
Los Angeles, Calif. |
279,495 (65%) |
|
San Antonio, Texas |
227,707 (91%) |
|
Chicago, Ill. |
213,723 (66%) |
|
Dallas, Texas |
188,838 (91%) |
|
Phoenix, Ariz. |
142,306 (55%) |
|
San Diego, Calif. |
130,463 (78%) |
|
Austin, Texas |
108,125 (87%) |
|
Philadelphia, Pa. |
103,962 (58%) |
How extreme climate impacts learning
According to the research, children ages 0-17 are the most vulnerable to heat-related risks. Extreme climates can impact a student’s health and development, sleep, behavior and their ability to concentrate on learning. Furthermore, studies show that heat exposure is associated with reduced academic achievement.
Although the traditional school year doesn’t include the hottest months of the year, summer programming puts students at risk in buildings that lack the proper equipment. A 2020 U.S. Government Accountability Office report found that 41% of public school districts need to replace or update HVAC systems in at least half of their schools.
In light of this data, the researchers offer five simple recommendations to protect students during the hottest months of the year:
- Check temperature and heat risk forecasts and note heat advisories or excessive heat warnings.
- Avoid outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day (usually midday).
- Plan to take frequent breaks in the shade or air-conditioned spaces.
- Make sure kids drink enough water during outdoor play or sports.
- Know the symptoms of heat-related illness and be prepared to take action.
Read the full report here.
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